calcitestar's review against another edition
3.0
Rather crude in places. An interesting read that kept me listening but lacked that wow factor.
helenh1975's review
dark
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
kath61's review against another edition
3.0
Well written, but the themes were so sad. I felt the epilogue was incongruous though.
booksattwelve's review
dark
funny
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? No
4.5
ellabells's review against another edition
2.0
I have adored Jenny’s previous books but this one lacked energy and I agree with others that the epilogue is a little odd. I also felt deeply saddened at the ending - quite a depressing turn out really. That said, her description of middle age and difficult family relationships is, as ever, brilliant.
milomo's review against another edition
funny
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
casacostello's review against another edition
5.0
Another wonderful read from Jenny Eclair. A family saga with elements of sadness and humour and subtleties that Jenny Eclair is so good at weaving in.
I wanted to take my time reading this as it was so enjoyable.
The main thread is the preparations for Bel's brother Lance's 50th birthday party being held at the family estate of Kittiwake.
We learn about Bel's relationships with her mother, Natasha, brother and her ancestors.
The men don't get a great press in this book as a whole and if I'm honest the end was slightly confusing - was it supposed to be a Sliding Doors scenario I wonder? Still a great read though.
I wanted to take my time reading this as it was so enjoyable.
The main thread is the preparations for Bel's brother Lance's 50th birthday party being held at the family estate of Kittiwake.
We learn about Bel's relationships with her mother, Natasha, brother and her ancestors.
The men don't get a great press in this book as a whole and if I'm honest the end was slightly confusing - was it supposed to be a Sliding Doors scenario I wonder? Still a great read though.
tasha34's review against another edition
5.0
My first book I have read by Jenny Eclair. Loved it. Great characters and an original storyline. Well worth a read.
emerion's review against another edition
4.0
Family sagas are often bloated and desperately in need of a savage edit imo, but this one isn’t . The characters are well-rounded and believable. They all have a part to play in a plot which gradually draws together seamlessly to a credible conclusion at a family party where the who and why of the central mystery is resolved. Although the nuggets of information along the way do hint at what the truth might be, they add to the enjoyment of the read. The prologue and epilogue bookend the story excellently, leaving a bittersweet feeling at the close. Very good.